How to Become an Electrician's Apprentice

Becoming an electrician's apprentice is challenging, but financially it is a good career choice. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians earn between $17 and $32 per hour. There will be plenty of job openings for electricians in the next several years. Apprenticeships last about four years, during which time you will learn everything about being an electrician. If you have an aptitude for electronics, carpentry and science, and enjoy working with your hands and other people, you will like being an electrician's apprentice. The state laws for becoming an electrician's apprentice vary between states because each state sets their own laws. You may have to contact your local government center to find out what it takes to get an electrician's license in your area. This guide is meant as a general overview of what it entails to become an electrician's apprentice.

Step 1

Research vocational schools in your area to see if they offer electrician apprenticeships. You can apply to these schools after you get your G.E.D. or high school diploma and turn 18.

Step 2

Enroll in a vocational school for your apprenticeship. During your four-year apprenticeship, the school will teach you how to wire a residential home, how electricity conducts energy, how to read blueprints, work safety, and how to install outlets. The school will also teach you the state laws and how to run a contracting business.

Step 3

Shadow a master electrician. You will learn valuable skills and get paid for it. In addition, the hours you work under a master electrician count toward your apprenticeship requirement.

Step 4

Choose an area of specialization, such as outside and inside lineman or residential electrician. Specialists can often make more money because there are fewer competitors.

Step 5

Graduate from the apprenticeship program after 2,000 hours of physical work and 150 hours of classwork. Get your electrician's license, pass the state exam, and start working as a state-certified electrician.Skill

* Moderately Challenging

Tips

* You will not need an apprentice license since you are working under a licensed electrician.

Warnings

* An electrician's job can often be hazardous, so follow safety precautions at all times.